Efficacy and Safety of Intense Pulsed Light and Nonablative Fractional 1440-nm Diode Laser to a Combination of the 2 Modalities for Facial Rejuvenation

BACKGROUND The aging process involves laxity, hyperpigmentation, and telangiectasias. It is important to target those elements of aging to be successful at achieving rejuvenation. OBJECTIVE To determine the efficacy, safety, and patient satisfaction of a combination intense pulsed light (IPL) and 1440-nm diode laser versus either treatment alone. METHODS Forty subjects were enrolled in this randomized split-face trial: 20 were randomized to Group A (received IPL on one side of the face and IPL followed by the 1440-nm diode laser on the other side) and 20 were randomized to Group B (received 1440-nm diode laser on one side of the face and IPL followed by the 1440-nm diode laser on the other side). RESULTS Investigators reported a percent improvement of 40% to 50% in all 3 groups at day 120; blinded investigator Global Aesthetic Improvement Scores were better in the combination group—90% compared with 84% and 83% in the IPL and 1440-nm diode laser groups, respectively. Wrinkling scores was significantly improved in the 1440-nm diode and combination groups. Hyperpigmentation and telangiectasias were significantly improved in all 3 groups. Adverse events were self-limited. CONCLUSION Combination treatment with IPL and 1440-nm diode laser was found to be safe and effective and resulted in higher subject satisfaction.